Update at 7:20 p.m.: Eastbound I-196 is back open, but westbound remains closed from Lane Avenue to the 131 interchange, an MDOT operator said.

GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Crews closed both directions of I-196 near the U.S. 131 interchange while they respond to a semi truck on fire.

Police and rescuers were called to westbound I-196 at Lane Avenue about 5:46 p.m. on reports of flames and heavy smoke coming from a semi truck that possibly rolled. People in the area told dispatchers they heard several small explosions.

Both directions of I-196 are closed at U.S. 131 interchange to Lake Michigan Drive, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.

The driver of the semi escaped the fire and was treated by rescuers.

Firefighters extinguished the blaze by about 6 p.m. but said crews will remain on scene "for a while," according to emergency dispatch traffic.

Angie Jackson covers public safety and breaking news for MLive/The Grand Rapids Press. Email her at ajackso3@mlive.com, and follow her on Twitter.